In 2019, the Nova Scotia Nature Trust initiated a project to create a native species garden at Nature’s House in downtown Dartmouth. Envisioned as an oasis of natural beauty and biodiversity, the initial garden took shape under the guidance of Rosemarie Lohnes with Helping Nature Heal. However, the COVID pandemic halted further progress, leaving the garden to grow unchecked until 2022.

Deciding to revive efforts, a call for help in the Nature Trust’s volunteer newsletter, ‘Branches,’ caught the attention of John Saville, a former certified Master Gardener. A workshop on managing the now overgrown garden was held with Rosemarie, and there, John met Jacqui Reeves who had been involved with the garden’s initial start-up. The two bonded over their fascination with plants. “I knew almost nothing about gardening until much later in life,” says John. “It was one of my staff growing bonsai that first sparked my interest, and now I am just amazed by plants, how extraordinary and beautiful they are,” says John.

Kindred spirits, John and Jacqui began the meticulous work of pruning, weeding, clearing pathways, and rebuilding the beautiful stone garden wall. Soon, the garden was again a welcoming space. “Growing up, I learned about creating food security from my grandfather,” explains Jacqui. “This garden doesn’t give that to us, but instead to all the wonderful winged and legged creatures that find their way here.”

As the garden continued to flourish, so did the team of volunteers. Elisabeth Veenema, a passionate environmentalist, arrived to help in the fall of 2023. In the spring of 2024, Sara Haynes and Hilary Marentette also joined. Sara had a strong family history of gardening, recalling with fondness stories about how her grandmother would come home from work and, before going inside, still dressed in heels, hose, gloves, and hat, would use her keys to dig about and weed. Hilary, a former doula and international volunteer, wanted a new opportunity to make a difference. With an extensive garden of her own, the Nature Trust’s smaller size still offers her immense joy, as does the camaraderie of the group.

Each group member brings unique experience, skills, knowledge, and perspectives to their work. Many laughs are shared as the team jokingly assign themselves roles based on their most obvious strengths. John, “The Pruner,” feels grateful to work for an organization with a clear and important mission. Elisabeth, “The Plant Identifier,” is passionate about pollinators and the natural food web, with an infectious sense of humour that John confirms, has brought much laughter to their working hours. Self-identifying as “The Weeder,” Sara appreciates the peace of mind found while digging in the dirt. “Infestation Manager” Jacqui’s experience volunteering in some of the world’s more challenging places brings wisdom and perspective that helps keep the group grounded. And Hilary, “The Transplanter,” brings a nurturing presence that is undoubtedly valuable to both the garden and the team.

When they aren’t as busy as bees, lively discussions ensue among the group on topics like plant and species blindness, the advantages of foraging, and how to best inspire children to care for nature. As a group, they embrace the philosophy that small actions can have significant impacts. “Isn’t it amazing that Goldenrod on its own supports over 100 species of moths and butterflies!” exclaims Elisabeth. The group’s dedication and expertise have fostered a most pleasant and productive ecosystem not only for the native species but also among each other. Their work exemplifies the larger purpose of the Nature Trust – that by working together, nature can thrive.

“If everyone would just take a moment to peer inside the umbel of a flower, they’re sure to be gobsmacked,” says Jacqui. It so happens, that should someone need a place to do so, Nature’s Garden is now, in splendid summer bloom, happy to oblige.

Note: Volunteers Venetia Hacquebard and Lynne Wordsworth were not present on the day Garden Volunteers gathered to be interviewed. We extend our gratitude for their contributions and hope to catch you up with them another time soon.